Boat-Manufacturing Startup Creates 30 Jobs

Sportsman Boats Manufacturing Inc., a start-up maker of saltwater fishing boats, announced plans Wednesday to establish its Dorchester County headquarters in 2012.

The $2 million investment is expected to generate 30 new jobs.

"We are pleased to begin operations in South Carolina’s Lowcountry area. Dorchester County has provided us with an excellent business environment and we look forward to building boats here. We appreciate all the support we’ve received from state and local officials," Tommy Hancock and Dale Martin, co-owners of Sportsman Boats Manufacturing, said in a statement.

Sportsman Boats Manufacturing will initially lease space in the East Port Industrial Park in Dorchester County. The park is located outside of Summerville near the intersection of Highway 78 and Deming Way.

The company will produce boats ranging in size from 20 to 25 feet and will initially build deep "v" center consoles and bay boats. The company expects to begin manufacturing operations in January.

Since the beginning of the year, South Carolina has recruited more than $3.9 billion in investment and more than 12,000 new jobs in the manufacturing sector.

"Start-ups and small businesses play a vital role in our state's economy. Sportsman Boats Manufacturing’s decision to locate in South Carolina not only helps build on our state’s manufacturing sector, but also shows that the state’s business-friendly climate provides a solid foundation for entrepreneurs," said Bobby Hitt, Secretary of Commerce.

The Coordinating Council for Economic Development approved the company for job development credits, which will be available when hiring targets are met. The S.C. Technical College System will provide pre-employment training.

The company will begin hiring for the new positions in mid-January. Anyone interested in job opportunities with the company should contact S.C. Works center in Summerville at 843-821-0695.